Gluten Free Banana Black Bottom Pie

A slice of this Gluten Free Banana Black Bottom Pie is dessert heaven. It has a chocolate cookie crumb crust, smooth banana pudding filling, and a fluffy whipped topping. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it always impresses!

Whenever I think about black bottom pie, it brings back such nostalgic memories! My mom and I used to make it for special occasions and truly no other dessert compares. But I do love making my famous bento cake, chocolate orange cake and gluten-free apple cake on many occasions as well.

This gluten free pie recipe is super similar to Mississippi River (or Mississippi Mud) pie. Both have chocolate bottoms, but a Mississippi Mud pie uses chocolate custard or chocolate pudding. Both are hands down amazing, but just with different flavors!

Why this dessert deserves a spot at your table

• It's secretly gluten free: My mom and I have worked for years to make sure this recipe tastes exactly like classic version, except it's celiac friendly.
• You can make it ahead of time: If you're in a rush with holiday cooking, feel free to prep this pie ahead of time.
• Great for any occasion: Serve at thanksgiving alongside a thanksgiving mocktail and our gluten free banana pudding, at birthday parties, or for a mid-week treat.
• Rich but light: The decadent chocolate crust is the perfect contrast to the creamy banana filling.

What makes a black bottom pie different from other pies?

A black bottom pie stands out due to its rich chocolate base, normally made with a ganache or custard. The chocolate layer tandem with the velvety banana pudding makes each bite incredibly delicious. Unlike traditional cream pies, which usually have a single texture, this pie is a fun mix of crisp cookie crust, silky chocolate, and light whipped cream topping.

Ingredients for a gluten free black bottom pie

• Gluten free chocolate wafer cookies:
• Sugar: You'll need regular sugar for the crust, filling, and topping!
• Butter: A baking classic that helps the crust come together perfectly.
• White chocolate and milk chocolate: White chocolate for the ganache, milk or dark chocolate to top.
• Heavy cream: In the filling and the whipped cream topping.
• Milk
• Egg yolks: In the pudding.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the pudding, checkout my gf flours and starches post for more info.
• Banana and vanilla extract: Gives this recipe it's delicious banana flavor.
• Powdered sugar: For the topping.

How to make black bottom pie

Prep the crust: Combine crushed cookies and sugar into a large bowl, then mix in melted butter. Press it into a springform pan and let bake for 8-10 minutes.

Make the ganache: Melt the chocolate chips with heavy whipping cream, stirring until it's smooth. Then poor over the crust.

The filling: In a saucepan, heat milk, heavy cream, sugar, and butter.

Egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar then slowly add to the milk mixture until combined.

Thicken and cool: Add cornstarch to the milk mixture and stir. Refrigerate for a few minutes or until it's cooled.

Banana slices and pudding: Add banana slices to the top of the ganache, then pour the banana pudding overtop.

Make the topping: Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until peaks form.

Final touches: Spread the whipped cream over the pudding and top with strawberries and chocolate shavings.

What is the history of "black bottom" pie?

Black bottom pie is thought to have originated in the south, and the chocolatey pastry or crust represents the swampy lowlands of the Mississippi river. There are a few other rumors of it's source, but no matter the origin, it's delicious!

Storing and freezing

How to store: If you happen to have leftovers, you can throw them in an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can you freeze black bottom pie? Yes, you can freeze this pie for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing in the freezer.

More gluten free recipes you'll love

• Razzleberry pie
• Gluten free pecan pie bread
• Thanksgiving charcuterie board
• Easy tater tot casserole
• Homemade gluten free pizza
• Find more recipes on my gluten free e-cookbook!

This recipe was originally posted December 12, 2017 and has been updated with new information and tips on March 11th, 2025. Here is the original image.